Form – Structure – Language for A levels Paper 1 –

Revision notes
1. Advertisements
 Example: "Get the glow you deserve with Radiant Skincare!
Buy one, get one free this weekend only! Transform your
skin with ingredients that work. Visit us today!"
 Notes:
o Form: Catchy headline, persuasive offer.
o Structure: Headline, product benefits, call-to-action.
o Language: Persuasive, direct, uses the second person
to engage readers.
2. Brochures
 Example: "Welcome to Green Hills Nature Reserve! Explore
diverse wildlife trails, breathtaking landscapes, and family-
friendly picnic spots. Open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM."
 Notes:
o Form: Sections with images and bullet points for easy
reading.
o Structure: Title, description of features, visiting
information.
o Language: Descriptive, concise, uses imperative
verbs.
3. Leaflets
 Example: "Join our beach cleanup on Sunday! Help
preserve our coastlines. Meet at Ocean Park at 10 AM. Bring
gloves and friends!"
 Notes:
o Form: Headline to attract attention, brief details.
 o Structure: Headline, details about the
event, call-to-action.
o Language: Simple, engaging, direct with calls to
action.
4. Editorials
 Example: "Rethinking Plastic: Why We Need to Ban Single-
Use Plastic Now. The plastic crisis is one of our planet's most
pressing issues. A ban on single-use plastic could be the
game-changer we need."
 Notes:
o Form: Persuasive, structured argument.
o Structure: Introduction, supporting arguments,
conclusion.
o Language: Formal, persuasive, uses rhetorical devices
like questions.
5. News Stories
 Example: "Firefighters Rescue Family from Downtown
Blaze. A family of four was rescued from a fire that broke
out late Tuesday night in a downtown apartment building."
 Notes:
o Form: Factual, concise.
o Structure: Inverted pyramid—essential details at the
beginning, followed by background.
o Language: Objective, neutral, uses past tense.
6. Articles
 Example: "10 Tips for Healthier Eating on a Budget. With
food prices rising, it’s important to eat healthily without
breaking the bank. Start by buying in bulk and planning
meals in advance."
 Notes:
 o Form: Informative, may include images and
bullet points.
o Structure: Introduction, main points with tips,
conclusion.
o Language: Semi-formal, engaging, uses practical
language for clarity.
7. Reviews
 Example: "The new Café Aroma offers a cozy atmosphere
and delicious coffee, though the wait times can be long.
Overall, a charming spot for coffee lovers."
 Notes:
o Form: Personal and evaluative.
o Structure: Introduction, evaluation of positives and
negatives, recommendation.
o Language: Critical, descriptive, often uses sensory
details.
8. Blogs
 Example: "My Trip to Kyoto: Exploring the Land of Temples
and Cherry Blossoms. Visiting Kyoto was like stepping back
in time. The temples are breathtaking, and the food is out of
this world."
 Notes:
o Form: Personal, often conversational.
o Structure: Hook, main narrative, closing reflection.
o Language: Engaging, personal, uses sensory
language.
9. Investigative Journalism
 Example: "The Dark Side of Fast Fashion: An Investigation.
In this report, we uncover the hidden costs of low-priced
clothing and its devastating impact on the environment."
  Notes:
o Form: Detailed and well-researched.
o Structure: Introduction, evidence-based analysis,
conclusion.
o Language: Formal, factual, uses statistics and quotes.
10. Letters
 Example: "Dear Admissions Officer, I am writing to express
my interest in the Psychology program at your university.
With a strong academic background and a passion for
mental health, I believe I would be an excellent fit."
 Notes:
o Form: Formal or informal, with structured layout.
o Structure: Salutation, body, closing.
o Language: Varies—here, it’s formal, polite, and
concise.
11. Podcasts
 Example: "Welcome to Green Planet Talks! Today, we’ll be
discussing how small changes in our daily lives can lead to a
huge positive impact on the environment."
 Notes:
o Form: Structured for auditory impact, often uses script.
o Structure: Introduction, main segments, closing.
o Language: Conversational, engaging, often informal.
12. (Auto)biographies
 Example: "As a child, I spent hours exploring the woods
near my house, a place that shaped my love for the
outdoors. Little did I know these adventures would lay the
foundation for my career in conservation."
 Notes:
 o Form: First-person, narrative.
o Structure: Key life events, achievements.
o Language: Reflective, descriptive, emotive.
13. Travel Writing
 Example: "I stood at the edge of the Grand Canyon, feeling
insignificant against nature’s masterpiece. The red hues,
the sheer depth—it was a sight I’ll never forget."
 Notes:
o Form: Descriptive, immersive.
o Structure: Setting description, personal experience.
o Language: Vivid, uses sensory language to create
atmosphere.
14. Diaries
 Example: "March 3, 2024. Today was unforgettable! I finally
climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. The views were breathtaking,
and I feel a huge sense of accomplishment."
 Notes:
o Form: Dated, personal reflections.
o Structure: Date, narrative, reflection.
o Language: Informal, intimate, first-person narrative.
15. Essays
 Example: "The relationship between freedom and
responsibility is complex. In this essay, I will examine how
freedom impacts individual responsibility in society."
 Notes:
o Form: Structured, formal.
o Structure: Introduction, argument, conclusion.
o Language: Formal, analytical, clear, uses evidence to
support points.
16. Scripted Speech
 Example: "Ladies and gentlemen, today we stand on the
brink of change. Climate action isn’t a choice; it’s a
responsibility."
 Notes:
o Form: Oral delivery, impactful opening.
o Structure: Introduction, main body, conclusion.
o Language: Clear, persuasive, uses rhetorical devices
like repetition.
17. Narrative Writing
 Example: "The storm raged outside, but Lily felt an odd
sense of calm. She had finally uncovered the secret she’d
been searching for all along."
 Notes:
o Form: Story-like, with plot development.
o Structure: Exposition, climax, resolution.
o Language: Descriptive, uses suspense, sensory
language.
18. Descriptive Writing
 Example: "The forest was alive with the sound of chirping
birds and rustling leaves. Sunlight filtered through the
canopy, casting dappled shadows on the ground."
 Notes:
o Form: Sensory and detail-oriented.
o Structure: Follows a logical order of sensory details.
o Language: Evocative, poetic, uses imagery and
sensory language.
To aim for an A* in Paper 1 of A Level English
Language 9093, it’s essential to master the exam structure,
analyze texts deeply, and use sophisticated language in your
responses. Here are some tips to help you approach Paper 1
strategically and maximize your score.

1. Master the Structure and Requirements

 Section A: Analyze and compare two texts, focusing on
content, language, and style. Achieving an A* requires a
detailed, perceptive comparison that demonstrates
understanding of both subtle similarities and differences.
 Section B: Directed writing task that transforms or adapts
the style of a passage. Show a nuanced understanding of
tone, register, and purpose to match the new audience or
format.
2. Develop a Systematic Reading Approach
 Begin with a close reading of each passage, underlining or
annotating key aspects like purpose, audience, and tone.
 Pay attention to contextual clues that reveal underlying
themes or perspectives in each text. A* responses often
highlight these subtle contextual differences.
 Take 10-15 minutes to annotate, focusing on literary
techniques, structural elements, and any unusual features.
Mark parts that evoke a strong reaction, as these often form
the basis of insightful analysis.
3. Showcase Advanced Analytical Skills in Section A
 Formulate a strong thesis at the start that addresses the
purpose and style of each text.
 In your comparative analysis, focus on higher-order
aspects, such as underlying assumptions, implied values,
and how language choices serve the overall purpose. For
instance, if one text uses humor while another uses a
 serious tone, discuss how this affects reader
interpretation and purpose.
 Avoid basic analysis; go beyond merely identifying
literary devices. Discuss why these devices are used and
how they contribute to the text’s meaning. For example,
instead of saying, “The author uses metaphor,” explain the
impact of that metaphor on the reader’s understanding or
emotions.
4. Structure and Cohesion are Crucial
 Start with an introduction that provides a concise
overview of each text’s purpose, audience, and tone.
 Organize your body paragraphs around key points of
comparison, discussing one point in both texts before
moving on to the next. This integrated structure is more
sophisticated than addressing each text separately.
 Use comparative language effectively—terms like “in
contrast,” “likewise,” “however,” and “similarly” show
nuanced understanding and highlight subtleties between
texts.
 Finish with a conclusion that reinforces the main insights of
your analysis, drawing together the overarching
comparisons.
5. Adapt Your Writing for Section B with Precision
 Identify and adapt the text’s tone and style appropriately
for the new audience or purpose in Section B. If required to
transform an article into a speech, modify the structure and
tone to suit an oral audience.
 Use stylistic choices from the original text where relevant
but demonstrate your own creativity by adjusting
language and tone skillfully.
 Address the task requirements thoroughly—whether
it’s changing perspective, adapting form, or making the
language suitable for a particular
 audience. For example, if adapting a formal
article for young readers, use simpler language, relatable
examples, and engaging phrases.
6. Incorporate High-Level Vocabulary and Syntax
 Demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary that is both
precise and fitting for the context. Avoid overusing complex
words; instead, aim for clarity and appropriateness.
 Vary sentence structure to maintain a dynamic, engaging
analysis. Use longer sentences to build detailed analysis
and shorter ones for emphasis or to underscore key points.
 Technical terminology for literary devices and stylistic
choices is crucial. Use terms like “lexical choice,” “register,”
“mode of address,” and “connotation” accurately to show
technical command of language analysis.
7. Balance Depth and Breadth
 While detail is essential, A* answers balance thorough
analysis with comprehensive coverage of relevant points.
Aim for at least three to four developed comparisons per
text.
 When discussing specific examples, keep explanations tight
and focused. Avoid lengthy descriptions; instead, go directly
into analysis, emphasizing effects and significance.
8. Practice Consistent, Focused Writing
 Work on completing timed practice essays to refine your
speed and structure under pressure.
 Edit your work for grammar, spelling, and style
consistency if time allows. Polished, precise writing leaves a
strong impression and can elevate your score.
9. Review and Refine Key Skills
 Review mark schemes and examiner reports to see
what distinguishes A* responses from lower grades. Focus
 on points such as perceptive analysis, varied
sentence structure, and advanced vocabulary.
 Build a list of high-quality sample phrases for comparison,
analysis, and synthesis. Practice weaving these seamlessly
into your responses for a natural but sophisticated effect.

Following these tips will strengthen your approach and help you
to think critically, analyze deeply, and communicate effectively
—key qualities for an A* performance in Paper 1.

Section A Checklist
1. Preparation and Initial Reading
☐ Identify Purpose: Determine the purpose of each text. Is it
to inform, entertain, persuade, criticize, or narrate?
☐ Determine Audience: Who is the intended audience for
each text? Consider age, background, interests, or specific group
targeting.
☐ Analyze Context: Note any contextual clues that might
influence the tone, style, or language used.
2. Annotate Key Features
☐ Highlight Tone and Register: Identify if the tone is formal,
informal, humorous, serious, sarcastic, etc.
☐ Identify Stylistic Choices: Mark important language devices
(metaphor, simile, alliteration) and structural elements
(paragraphing, punctuation, sentence length).
☐ Note Language Features: Observe specific word choices
(lexis) that contribute to the text’s meaning or tone.
3. Develop Your Comparative Thesis
☐ Establish Key Differences and Similarities:
Decide on the primary contrasts or similarities between the
texts’ purposes, audiences, and tones.
☐ Formulate a Central Argument: Create a thesis that will
guide your comparison, summarizing the main points you’ll
discuss.
4. Plan Your Comparative Analysis
☐ Organize by Key Comparative Points: Choose specific
features for comparison, such as tone, purpose, language style,
and audience appeal.
☐ Choose Examples from Each Text: Find strong examples
from each text to support your points for each feature.
5. Structure Your Response
☐ Introduction: Briefly introduce each text, including purpose,
audience, tone, and context.
☐ Body Paragraphs: Structure paragraphs around comparative
points:
☐ Point: State the feature or technique being compared.
☐ Evidence: Provide a specific example from the first text, then
from the second.
☐ Analysis: Discuss the effect of each example on purpose,
audience, and tone.
☐ Comparison: Use comparative phrases (e.g., “in contrast,”
“similarly,” “while”) to connect ideas between texts.
☐ Conclusion: Summarize the main differences and similarities,
reinforcing your thesis.
6. Language and Technical Accuracy
☐ Use Comparative Language: Ensure phrases like
“conversely,” “likewise,” “alternatively” are used effectively to
link ideas.
☐ Employ Advanced Vocabulary: Use precise
terms for tone, structure, and language devices.
☐ Vary Sentence Structure: Use complex sentences for
detailed analysis and shorter sentences for emphasis.
7. Proofread and Final Check
☐ Grammar and Spelling: Correct any errors in language to
enhance clarity and professionalism.
☐ Ensure Relevance: Confirm that each point directly answers
the question and contributes to your thesis.
☐ Check for Completeness: Ensure all comparative aspects
(purpose, audience, tone, language) have been covered
adequately.

Section B Checklist
1. Understand the Task Requirements
☐ Read the Prompt Carefully: Identify what the task is asking
you to do—transform, adapt, or reframe the passage.
☐ Determine Audience: Who is the intended reader of your
response? (e.g., younger readers, a formal audience, general
public)
☐ Identify Purpose: What is the purpose of the adapted text?
(e.g., to inform, entertain, argue, persuade)
2. Analyze the Original Passage
☐ Examine Tone and Style: Note the tone (e.g.,
formal, conversational, humorous) and style of the original text.
☐ Identify Key Content: Determine which main ideas or points
should be included in your response.
☐ Observe Structural Features: Notice any specific structural
elements (e.g., paragraph structure, sentence length) that you
might need to adapt.
3. Plan Your Response
☐ Adapt Tone and Language: Decide how to change the tone
and language to suit the new audience and purpose. Consider
formality, vocabulary choice, and sentence structure.
☐ Select Relevant Points: Decide which points from the
original text are most relevant and how they should be
presented in the new format.
☐ Consider Format Requirements: If the task asks for a
particular format (e.g., letter, article, speech), structure your
response accordingly.
4. Organize Your Structure
☐ Introduction: Craft a relevant opening that grabs attention
and matches the required tone and style.
☐ Body Paragraphs:
☐ Topic Sentences: Each paragraph should begin with a clear
topic sentence that introduces the main point.
☐ Develop Points: Expand on the main points with adapted
language and style. Avoid directly copying phrases from the
original text.
☐ Use Relevant Examples or Anecdotes: If appropriate, add
examples or small anecdotes that enhance your message.
☐ Conclusion: End with a closing statement that wraps up the
purpose effectively.
5. Use Language Techniques Effectively
☐ Match the Required Tone: Use vocabulary and
phrases that reflect the tone (e.g., persuasive, critical, friendly).
☐ Adopt a Suitable Register: Adjust formality based on the
new audience, making sure language is accessible if addressing
a general audience or technical if aimed at experts.
☐ Incorporate Rhetorical Devices: Depending on the
purpose, consider using rhetorical questions, lists, repetition, or
direct address for impact.
6. Review and Polish
☐ Check for Coherence and Flow: Ensure ideas flow logically
from one to the next, with clear transitions between points.
☐ Edit for Grammar and Spelling: Proofread for language
accuracy and polish any awkward phrasing.
☐ Ensure Appropriateness: Confirm that the final response
reflects the correct tone, style, and structure for the target
audience.
7. Final Review
☐ Confirm Task Fulfillment: Re-read the prompt to ensure all
aspects of the task were addressed.
☐ Time Check: Allow a few minutes at the end for a final read-
through, checking for any last-minute improvements.

Sample Answer
Sample Answer for Section A
Introduction: Both Text A, a newspaper article titled "Climate Change: A
Global Crisis Unfolds," and Text B, a blog post titled "Why We Should All
Care About Climate Change," discuss the urgent issue of climate change.
While both texts aim to inform readers, they target different audiences
and adopt distinct tones and styles. Text A is a formal piece directed at a
broad, educated readership and uses precise, objective
language to convey scientific data. In contrast, Text B is more
conversational, aiming to engage younger audiences through a relatable,
persuasive tone.
Body Paragraph 1 - Purpose and Audience: The purpose of Text A is
primarily to inform and provide a factual analysis of climate change,
evident in its focus on scientific data and statistics. The audience is likely
educated professionals or general readers interested in current events, as
indicated by the formal style and reliance on credible sources like the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Text B, however, is
designed to raise awareness and motivate action, appealing to younger
readers who might not be well-versed in scientific details. Its accessible
language and use of personal anecdotes suggest it aims to make climate
change more approachable and relatable to a general audience.
Body Paragraph 2 - Tone and Style: Text A maintains a serious,
objective tone, consistent with its role as a news article. It avoids
emotional language and instead uses scientific terms like “carbon
emissions” and “global temperature rise.” This objective tone reinforces
its informative purpose, creating a sense of reliability. Conversely, Text B
adopts an enthusiastic and sometimes urgent tone, evident in phrases
like “We’re running out of time!” and “This is OUR planet!” The informal,
conversational style is further emphasized through direct address, with
the author speaking directly to readers using “you” and “we,” establishing
a sense of shared responsibility.
Body Paragraph 3 - Language and Stylistic Choices: The language
in Text A is formal and precise, utilizing specialized terminology like
“sustainable energy solutions” and “climate mitigation strategies.” This
technical language serves to inform readers of the complexity of climate
issues while building authority. Text B, on the other hand, uses simpler,
more emotive language to engage readers. Phrases like “Let’s join hands
to protect our future” and “We can make a difference!” appeal
emotionally, motivating readers to take personal action. Additionally, Text
B uses rhetorical questions—“What will happen if we do nothing?”—to
provoke readers’ thoughts, making the text more interactive and
persuasive.
Body Paragraph 4 - Structure and Visual Features: Text A is
structured in a conventional news format with short paragraphs and
subheadings like “Key Findings” and “Future Projections,” which make the
information accessible and logically organized. The article includes charts
and statistics to support its analysis, enhancing
its informative value. Text B, however, has a more free-
flowing structure, typical of blog posts. It employs bullet points and
bolded phrases, such as “Take action NOW!” to draw attention to key
points. This structure suits a digital format, making it easier for casual
readers to skim and absorb information quickly.
Conclusion: In conclusion, while both texts address climate change, they
cater to different audiences through distinct tones, language, and
structural choices. Text A provides an objective, data-driven perspective,
targeting readers looking for a factual overview, while Text B uses a more
personal, emotionally driven approach aimed at younger audiences.
These contrasting styles reveal how language and tone can be tailored to
meet the needs and interests of specific audiences effectively.